During the week before classes begin, the Intensive English Program (IEP) placement test is given to determine the proper level of instruction for incoming students. Adjustments in placement may then be made at the end of the first week of class, after instructors have carefully reviewed each student’s performance. These procedures ensure that students receive the full benefit from the program as they progress through the instructional levels.
Program Details
Levels
There are seven levels in the IEP. All levels meet for 20-25 classroom hours each week. After completing Level 6 or 7, most students are ready to begin academic work at a college or a university.
Levels 1-3:
Beginning through low-intermediate students take classes with specific attention to oral communication, reading and writing, as well as some direct attention to grammar.
Level 4:
Intermediate students take classes that emphasize academic preparation in a combined reading/writing course, an oral communication course, and a grammar course.
Levels 5-6:
High intermediate students attend a required core set of classes which are a reading/writing course, an oral communication course, and a grammar course. Students in Level 6 can choose an optional skill-based or content-based elective class.
Level 7:
Advanced students attend a required core reading/writing course and then choose two or three additional skill or content elective courses. This level is designed to be repeated by students who are advanced but require further language study for their intended majors. Topics of electives are changed every session.
Elective courses
Elective courses are either skill-based or content based. Skill-based courses include advanced grammar, advanced pronunciation, advanced research writing, and TOEFL preparation. Content-based courses include topics in American film, current events, food, history, and multilingualism.
Attendance
Students are expected to attend classes daily. Also, attendance is required to maintain legal immigration status in the United States. Any student with excessive absences will be dismissed from the program, and their sponsor will be notified (if applicable). Dismissal from the program also results in loss of access to university housing. For students who are experiencing problems with attendance, we offer individualized counseling in order to find solutions to any challenges they may be experiencing.
End of session evaluation
The IEP Final Exam and the Institutional TOEFL are given to students at the end of each session, offering an individual assessment of progress. Student achievement in course work and on tests is recorded on this official evaluation form. This form documents all session results and teacher assessments and is sent to students and their sponsors.
Certificate
Students leaving the program are awarded a Certificate of Participation.
Special courses
The IEP regularly offers special courses for groups of students with particular needs or interests. Some of these are offered on a regular basis, such as Legal English during the summer, and some are offered by special arrangement at different times during the year.
If you are interested in a special arrangement for a group of students, please contact the Director of Budget and Administration, Michelle Fleener.
The College of Arts